On June 3, 2026, President Trump issued the executive order “Strengthening Customs Enforcement”. In the executive order, the President has ordered Customs to take steps to revise eligibility regulations, guidance and policies with regards to those wishing to act in the capacity of an importer of record. The President stated that importers will need to “provide additional data and identification information”. Similarly, CBP’s current POA best practices document states that a customs broker should “To the greatest extent possible, have POA’s completed in person so the grantor’s unexpired government issued photo identification (driver’s license, passport, etc.) can be reviewed.”
Both CBP and surety companies have stated that identity theft and fraud are increasing and Customs is taking a closer look at importers Right to Make Entry (RTME). Shipments are being held at ports of entry while RTME exams are being conducted. This may involve a request to the broker for a copy of the power of attorney used to execute the release and entry as well as transactional documents from the importer to prove they own or have a financial interest in the goods. CBP is asking brokers to provide documents to support the review and authenticity of the power of attorney including government issued photo identification. Customs views RTME as a condition of release and will not release cargo until the review is concluded. This has resulted in additional storage and demurrage charges for many importers.
In light of the executive order and CBP’s own best practices document, effective July 1, 2026, A.N. Deringer will require positive identification in the form of an unexpired government issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.) for the party or parties signing any new power of attorney. Over time we will reach out to our clients which currently have a power of attorney on file without positive identification.